Monitoring patient physiological responses to therapy such as arterial blood gases, vital signs or blood chemistry, and lung function changes, and consulting with physicians if there are adverse reactions.
Working as part of a team of health care professionals to manage patient care by assisting with medical procedures.
Setting up and operating devices including therapeutic gas administration apparatus, mechanical ventilators, environmental control systems, and aerosol generators.
Following specified parameters of treatment.
Providing emergency care, such as external cardiac massage, artificial respiration, or assistance with cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
Inspecting, testing, cleaning, and maintaining respiratory therapy equipment to ensure it is functioning safely and efficiently.
Maintaining charts that contain patient identification and therapy information.
Measuring arterial blood gases, reading prescriptions, lung capacity, and reviewing other information to assess patient condition.
Relaying blood analysis results to a physician.
Making emergency visits to resolve equipment problems when necessary.
Ordering equipment repairs when necessary.
Explaining health care treatment procedures to patients to gain cooperation.
Checking pulmonary function in patients.
Respiratory Therapist Requirements:
Completion of an accredited respiratory therapy program or technical college course for respiratory therapy.
Registration or certification by the national board for respiratory Care (NBRC).
Current RCP license in the state of practice.
Current RN or LPN license in the state of practice.
Respiratory care, emergency care, and intensive care experience.
Must possess a valid and current driver license and auto insurance.
Current BLS and/or CPR certification from the American Heart Association or American Red Cross.
Strong knowledge of pulmonary function and pulmonary rehabilitation.
